Beef Kofta

Juicy Beef Kofta combines minced beef, cumin, cinnamon, and herbs into flavourful skewers, perfect for grilling or roasting with Middle Eastern flair. Spice up your grill with these juicy, flavour-packed skewers! A taste of the Middle East that’s perfect for any gathering. #KoftaKebabs #MiddleEasternEats #BoldFlavours

Kofta is a dish with ancient roots, enjoyed across the Middle East, South Asia, Central Asia, and the Balkans. The name “kofta” derives from the Persian word kufteh, which means “pounded meat”—a fitting description for this flavour-packed meatball or meatloaf dish that has taken on various forms throughout centuries and cultures. It’s made with ground meat, spices, and herbs, and shaped into balls, patties, or logs. With Beef Kofta, you get an introduction to Middle Eastern spices and an inviting way to explore new flavours, whether you’re dining out or bringing it to life in your kitchen.

A Classic Middle Eastern Flavour Experience

At its heart, Beef Kofta brings together a range of rich, aromatic spices that can make even a simple meatball feel extraordinary. The base is usually minced beef or lamb mixed with finely chopped onion and garlic, which are staples in this dish, and a range of herbs and spices that infuse the meat with bold flavours. Parsley and coriander add a fresh, herby note, while warm spices like cumin, cinnamon, and allspice make the dish distinctly Middle Eastern. A bit of cayenne and ginger adds depth and a touch of heat, resulting in a blend that’s flavourful but not overwhelming.

Kofta can be prepared in numerous ways, with grilling being a favourite in Middle Eastern cuisine for its smoky finish. Charcoal grilling is ideal, but it can also be baked, fried, or even poached depending on regional variations and personal preference.

The Many Faces of Kofta

Kofta is incredibly versatile and found in diverse forms around the world. Middle Eastern Kofta, like the Beef Kofta here, is typically seasoned with spices like cumin and cinnamon and cooked on skewers or grilled, often served with a tomato-based sauce or a side of flatbread. Other popular versions include:

• Indian Kofta: Available in vegetarian forms like Malai Kofta (potato and paneer balls in a creamy sauce) and non-vegetarian versions cooked in a spiced curry.
• Turkish Köfte: Served as smaller patties or meatballs with onion and parsley, usually grilled or fried.
• Greek Keftedes: Small meatballs with oregano and mint, typically fried and paired with tzatziki.
• Persian Koofteh: Larger, sometimes stuffed with dried fruits and nuts, and cooked in a saffron sauce for a luxurious take on the dish.

Each version celebrates its local flavours and ingredients, but all share the same comforting appeal, making kofta an enduring favourite globally.

A Delicious Introduction to Middle Eastern Cuisine

Beef Kofta is a fantastic gateway to Middle Eastern cuisine, as it balances the bold spices of the region without overwhelming the palate. It’s an ideal choice for newcomers to this cuisine, offering a mild introduction compared to some of the spicier dishes that the Middle East is known for. Kofta is also versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or a main dish, paired beautifully with flatbread, a refreshing yoghurt sauce, or a side of fragrant rice.

If you’re looking for a flavourful dish that brings a bit of Middle Eastern tradition to your table, Beef Kofta is the perfect choice. Easy to prepare and brimming with delicious spices, it’s a dish that captures the soul of Middle Eastern cooking with every bite.

Beef Kofta

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 12 reviews

• Author: Raymund
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins
• Total Time: 35 mins
• Yield: 6 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: Greek

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Juicy Beef Kofta combines minced beef, cumin, cinnamon, and herbs into flavourful skewers, perfect for grilling or roasting with Middle Eastern flair.

---

Ingredients

Units MUS Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 kg minced beef (25% fat)
• 1 large white onion, finely chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 handful flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
• 1 handful coriander, finely chopped
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• 1 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• freshly ground black pepper
• salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients thoroughly.
2. Shape the mixture into small logs and thread onto skewers.
3. Preheat a grill (charcoal grilling is recommended) and cook the kofta until the meat is browned and cooked through, turning as needed for even cooking.
4. Serve hot and enjoy with a side of flatbread or yoghurt sauce.

---